Louis Riel Institute

The Louis Riel Institute seeks to fill 4 Full-time Term Riel House Historical Interpreter positions located in Winnipeg, MB.

Please forward cover letter and resume to:
Email: [email protected]

"Did you know? Manitoba Day marks the day the Manitoba Act received Royal Assent in 1870!
As we reflect on this historic milestone, we also remember the Battle of Batoche (May 9–12), a symbol of our enduring resilience.

THIS MONTH IN HISTORY:

The Battle of Batoche (May 9–12, 1885)

The Battle of Batoche, fought from May 9 to 12, 1885, was the final confrontation of the Northwest Resistance, a pivotal event in Red River Métis and Canadian history. The battle saw the forces of Louis Riel and Gabriel Dumont fighting against the Canadian government to protect Métis land, culture, and rights.

Throughout the late 19th century, the Métis faced increasing marginalization as Canadian settlement expanded westward. The promises made to them after the Red River Resistance (1869–1870) were largely unfulfilled, leading to frustration among the Métis people. In 1884, Riel returned from exile to help the Métis in Saskatchewan draft a petition demanding land rights and self-governance. However, the Canadian government ignored their appeals, leading to armed conflict.

On May 9, 1885, government forces, led by Major-General Frederick Middleton, advanced on Batoche, the stronghold of the Red River Métis resistance. The Métis, numbering about 250 fighters, were heavily outnumbered by Middleton’s force of 900 troops. Despite this disadvantage, Gabriel Dumont, a skilled military strategist, used guerrilla tactics to slow the government’s advance.

For four days, the Métis defended Batoche, utilizing rifle pits and engaging in close combat. However, they faced severe shortages of ammunition, forcing them to use makeshift projectiles.

By May 12, exhausted and outgunned, the Métis resistance collapsed. The Canadian troops stormed Batoche, bringing an end to the battle. The fall of Batoche marked the end of the Northwest Resistance. Louis Riel surrendered on May 15, 1885, was tried for treason, and executed later that year. Gabriel Dumont fled to the United States but later returned to Canada.

The battle had lasting consequences for the Red River Métis people. It resulted in increased government control over the prairies and further displacement of Métis and other Indigenous communities. However, Batoche remains a symbol of Red River Métis resilience and the ongoing fight for recognition and self-determination.

Today, Batoche National Historic Site stands as a tribute to the courage of the Métis who fought to preserve their culture and way of life.

The Winter Edition of the Louis Riel Institute Newsletter is here!
Packed with stories, events, and updates that celebrate Red River Métis history, culture, and community.

Don’t miss out — subscribe today on our website and stay connected with LRI all year round!

https://www.louisrielinstitute.ca/

🚀 Red River Métis Youth (ages 17–29) — Ready to explore the world of AI?

Join us for Red River Métis Youth Tech Leaders: Exploring the World of AI. A virtual workshop designed to help you understand how AI is shaping your future.

✨ What you’ll learn:
• How AI shows up in daily life and work
• Demystifying the technology
• Ethics and practical safety
• Prompt engineering tips you can actually use

🖥️ Virtual Event
📅 Choose the session that works for you:
• April 11 at 2:00 PM
• April 17 at 6:00 P.

This is a great opportunity to build skills, ask questions, and gain confidence using AI tools. No prior experience needed.

👉 Register using the QR code on the poster, or CLICK HERE

https://forms.office.com/r/jz1aP3CDeW?origin=lprLink

The Louis Riel Institute was honoured to participate in the MMF Four-Pillar Consultation: Grounded in Land, Strengthened by Community, Guided by Consultation held in Winnipeg on February 21–22. Hosted by MMF Consultation and Engagement Department.

During the session on Red River Métis Teacher Recruitment and Retention, our team shared about the Red River Métis Circle of Educators and LRI’s Cultural Education programs, highlighting the importance of supporting Red River Métis educators and strengthening culturally grounded learning opportunities.

We were also proud to host a cultural booth, connecting with Citizens and sharing resources that support Red River Métis education and culture.

Thank you to the Manitoba Métis Federation for the invitation and to everyone who stopped by to visit and share their insights. Your voices will help to shape the future of education.

The Louis Riel Institute was honoured to host a special evening gathering on February 10, bringing together LRI staff, the Rideau Hall Foundation, and members of the Red River Métis Circle of Educators Advisory Committee.

The evening included opening and closing prayers by Elder Linda St. Cyr-Saric, a presentation on the Red River Métis Circle of Educators by Chair Wayne Davies and Program Coordinator Melissa Atkins, and welcoming remarks from Randa Abader of the Rideau Hall Foundation.

Guests enjoyed Métis-inspired dishes from Bistro on Notre Dame and a lively cultural performance featuring jigging by Gavin Forbes, with fiddle and guitar by Ryan Spence and Rene Jobin.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for an evening of connection, culture, and community as we continue to support and grow the Red River Métis Circle of Educators.

https://www.louisrielinstitute.ca/red-river-metis-circle-of-educators


Fondation Rideau Hall Foundation

Minister Remillard had a wonderful time celebrating "I Love to Read Month” at Prairie Rose School. She read to students from grades 1-3, and the kids were absolutely captivated by the story about bannok. The joy and excitement in the room was contagious!

Reading initiatives like these help foster a love of learning in our students. Thank you to Prairie Rose School for inviting Minister Remillard to participate in this wonderful program that's building a foundation for lifelong learning!

Every Thursday in March, we're gathering at St. John's Library to share the beautiful art of beading. Whether you're a beginner or have experience with this traditional craft, you're welcome to join us!

📅 When: Every Thursday in March
📍 Where: St. John's Library
💰 Cost: Completely FREE!

No registration needed - walk-ins are welcome! Come learn a new skill, connect with community members, and take home your own handmade creation.

Bring your friends and family for a creative evening celebrating Métis culture through this timeless art form.